North vs. South go head to head on Sunday at Elland Road, for the right to be crowned World Champions.
Back-to-back Super League champions, Leeds Rhinos will be hope to repeat last season’s victory over Melbourne Storm and become the first ever team to reclaim the title.
However, they come up against formidable opposition in the shape of Manly Sea Eagles, who crushed Melbourne 40-0 in their respective final.
The game sees emotional returns and renewed rivalries for a few of the players that will be involved.
Scott Donald faces his previous club for the first time since signing for the Rhinos, and will be looking to add to his impressive try-scoring tally.
Kylie Leuluai is another that was signed from Manly, back in 2007.
Yet the most intriguing return to our shores is that of Jamie Lyon, who spent two seasons at Leeds’ bitter rivals St Helens.
Scoring 46 tries in 63 appearances in his time at Knowsley Road, he helped them to achieve a league and cup double in 2006, as well as going on to secure the prestigious Man of Steel award.
Supporters will be hoping for better weather conditions than last year, so that they can witness an entertaining, free-flowing game.
Leeds have been boosted by the return of scrum-half, Rob Burrow, who will make his first appearance of the season.
But they will need to be wary of his opposite number, Matt Orford, who has the ability to unlock defences and create match-winning opportunities.
Both sets of fans can expect a compelling encounter from two sides that are the best in their hemisphere.
On a final note, one question does need to be asked though.
Why have the match on the same day as football’s Carling Cup Final?
Surely if the profile of rugby league is to be expanded, the game should be on an isolated day, in order to gain maximum exposure, and even attract fans from other sports.
However, that is something out of our hands. Lets just look forward to the contest, in a sport that we love to follow.
Shamoon Hafez
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